The annual lighting of the New Bern Christmas Tree at the DoubleTree hotel is scheduled for this evening, with special music, dancers and an appearance by Santa.

The festivities get under way at 5:30 p.m., with the official ceremonies at 6 p.m.

The Christmas tree at the DoubleTree comes from Gerald Arthur of Avery Trees in Western North Carolina.

The event, now in its eighth year, is sponsored by the DoubleTree. The city of New Bernassists with hoisting the tree each year, along with the hotel maintenance staff, headed by Jeff Whitley.

This year’s tree is 23 feet tall.

Marines will be on hand to collect toys for the Toys for Tots program and donations of unwrapped toys are welcome.

Opening ceremonies include the national anthem and the New Bern High NJROTC Color Guard.

Entertainment includes the Christ Church Choir; Wanda Kay’s Dancer; St. Paul’s Catholic Church Chorus, led by music teacher Meg Johnson, who will also have a solo; and singer John Van Dyke singing “Silent Night.”

Hilton Manager and host Marcie Mills will introduce Mayor Lee Bettis to flip the switch and light the tree.

The lighting is traditionally followed by the arrival of Santa via New Bern Fire and Rescue fire truck, with candy for the children

Emcees for the event are TV-12’s Anna Bulszewicz and Les Still.

Beasley Broadcasting will have prizes and games for the crowd.

Refreshments for the crowd include cookies, hot chocolate and apple cider.

The New Bern High School Band, which usually plays, had to opt out this year to travel to the state football championship game.

Charlie Hall can be reached at 252-635-5667 or charlie.hall@newbernsj.com.